Lunar New Year Gala features free performances, community reception

The Augusta University Chinese Students and Scholars Association and the Augusta University Office of International Initiatives will host a Lunar New Year Gala from 4-5:30 p.m. Jan. 21 at the Maxwell Theatre. A reception will follow the performance from 6-8:30 p.m. at the Dr. Roscoe Williams Ballroom in the Jaguar Student Activities Center.

“The Lunar New Year celebration is the most important holiday in Chinese culture. Its significance to China is comparable to that of Christmas in America,” said Lucee Xiao, president of the Chinese Students and Scholars Association. ”The Spring Festival is a time of year where families gather to eat dumplings, nian gao, fish, spring rolls, etc. Young children traditionally receive a red envelope with money and spectacular fireworks will be set off.”

The gala at Augusta University will feature a traditional dragon dance, followed by performances that include singing, dancing and tai chi, all done by members of the local Chinese community.

The gala marks the return of an in-person celebration for Lunar New Year and is a collaboration with other Chinese organizations in the area.

The event is free and all Augusta University students, faculty and staff are invited, as well as members of the community.